27 Jun 05

The mental health needs of gay men and women are, in many respects, not all that different from those of other people in society. 

We all struggle with the same stresses and strains in our daily lives as others do. In addition, gay men and women struggle with direct and indirect discrimination which takes its psychological toll. Historically, mental health services have tended to pathologise homosexuality and to 'treat' it as an illness or aberration. 

While advances have been made in this field of medicine, many of the effects are still felt by gay men and women, who internalise this and many other kinds of 'homophobia'. World Religions have almost universally condemned homosexuality and many gay men struggle to find a spiritual dimension to their lives. Relationships with family members, work colleagues and others can sometimes be fraught with tensions which arise because of sexuality, stereotyping, ignorance, fear and prejudice. 

At its worst, such stress can lead to suicide. Statistics measuring suicide and Para suicide among gay and lesbian young people are alarming. Grasping an understanding of anxiety and stress before feelings and thoughts run to extreme levels does help people to overcome these problems.

When stress is overwhelming it's incredibly easy to ignore because we can become wrapped up in everything we need to do to make the stress go away. But sometimes in cases like these we run around trying to do everything and accomplishing nothing because we are just too stressed. 

It's always a good idea to give yourself some time to relax, but this need becomes critical when we are faced with a lot of stress. Otherwise we could face feeling worse and experiencing more serious health risks. Ironically, this is the time many of us are least like to take care of ourselves.

If you are in a situation in which you are too stressed, give yourself some time to unwind. Do something that you enjoy that is relaxing.

Managing your anxiety should be a joint effort between you and your doctor. You and your doctor can make a plan that will fit your needs. Sometimes just making the plan helps you feel better. It helps you to feel that you have control over your own life. Writing your plan down on paper also helps, because it seems more "official" that way. Even small improvements add up. You can play an important part in improving your health by learning some ways to reduce overall stress and anxiety.

There are some things that you can try that might help reduce your level of stress and anxiety, Exercise for 30 minutes at least three times a week. Set aside some time each day to do something relaxing, such as listening to music, reading, talking with friends, or taking a walk. * Cut down on coffee, tea, and alcohol. * Eat several small, well-balanced meals each day, instead of eating three large meals. * Drink four to eight glasses of water every day. * Get six to ten hours of sleep every night * Practice any relaxation tips suggested by your doctor, such as deep breathing or muscle relaxation.

Source:freenetpages.com